Gulian Verplanck

"Gulian Verplanck" is a portrait painted by John Singleton Copley in 1771. The subject, Gulian Verplanck, was a prominent New York merchant and politician. Copley, an American painter known for his realistic and detailed portraits, captured Verplanck in a three-quarter pose, emphasizing his status and character. The painting is notable for its use of light and shadow, which enhances the texture of Verplanck's clothing and the depth of his expression. Copley's technique reflects the influence of European portraiture while maintaining an American sensibility. The work is part of the collection at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. The exact circumstances of the commission are unknown.

"Gulian Verplanck," painted by John Singleton Copley in 1771, is an oil on canvas portrait that depicts the subject in a three-quarter pose. Verplanck is dressed in a dark coat with a white cravat, which contrasts with the muted background. The use of light highlights the subject's face, emphasizing his features and expression. Copley's meticulous attention to detail is evident in the rendering of Verplanck's clothing and the texture of his skin. The composition is balanced, with Verplanck's gaze directed slightly off to the side, inviting the viewer into the scene. The overall color palette is subdued, enhancing the formal and dignified nature of the portrait. The painting exemplifies Copley's skill in capturing the personality and social status of his subjects through realistic representation.